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How stem cell donation works

On any given day, Canadian Blood Services Stem Cell Registry searches on behalf of hundreds of patients in Canada in need of a lifesaving stem cell transplant. Every new registrant brings hope to those waiting. Through this registry, we connect those whose life depends on the sincere generosity of volunteer stem cell donors.

Join the stem cell registry

We are with you every step of the way

It may take weeks, months or even years before you get the call to donate stem cells. Being on the Canadian Blood Services Stem Cell Registry is a long-term commitment. If you’re found to be the best match, you will be contacted by a registered nurse who will provide you with detailed information and support throughout the entire donation process.

You will complete a comprehensive health screening to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria to donate stem cells.

The registered nurse then discusses the type of donation and dates requested by the transplant centre, as well as inform where (which hospital) the stem cell donation will take place.

You are then required to attend a physical examination performed by a physician at the hospital where your donation will take place. This exam includes routine medical tests to confirm that you are healthy, free of infectious diseases and ensures that your donation will not be a risk to you or the patient.

If you are medically cleared to donate, and willing to proceed with the donation, the transplant centre is informed and the patient then begins their pre-transplant treatments such as chemotherapy and/or radiation.

There are two types of stem cell donations. Depending on the treatment selected for the patient, you will be asked to donate either peripheral blood stems cells or bone marrow :

Peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC)

Bone marrow

Once your donation is complete, your donated stem cells are transported to the transplant centre and infused into the patient.

Peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC)

PBSC are collected from circulating (peripheral) blood. Since only a small number of (blood) stem cells is released into the blood stream, a cell growth stimulating drug is administered to donors prior to the donation to dramatically increase the volume of stem cells in the blood for collection and transplant.

PBSC donors receive an injection of a drug called granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) every day for four days prior to the donation. These injections stimulate the production and release of stems cells from the bone marrow into the blood stream. Additional injection(s) may be required on the day of the donation. The stem cells are then collected using a procedure called apheresis.

Apheresis is a collection method where only the stem cells are separated and collected during donation. The remaining blood components are returned to the donor. This is a non-surgical procedure and takes approximately four-six hours. In some cases, a second donation is required the following day.

The risks are minimal

Apheresis is a common regularly used method for collecting plasma and platelet donations. Donors sometimes feel cold during the procedure, so blankets are provided to ensure comfort.

Possible short-term side effects from the (G-CSF) injections may include mild to moderate bone pain, muscle pain, headaches, flu-like symptoms, nausea, vomiting and redness or pain at the injection site. These reactions normally disappear within 24 to 48 hours after donating. There are currently no known long-term side effects from the use of the drug.

All known risks and side effects are explained during a detailed information session completed by the registered nurse, as well as the physician overseeing the donation. If you are selected as a match to a patient and proceed with the donation, it's important to keep a list of any questions you may have and to ensure you're comfortable with the answers as you meet with the various health care professionals.

Bone marrow stem cell donation

Bone marrow stem cell donation is a surgical procedure performed under anesthesia. The physician administering the donation uses a special hollow needle to withdraw liquid marrow from the back of the pelvic (hip) bones . The procedure usually lasts 45 to 90 minutes. The amount collected can range from 0.5 litres to 1.5 litres depending on the number of stem cells the patient needs. This is calculated based on the height and weight of the donor and patient.

Experience has shown that bone marrow donation is safe

There are some risks associated with anesthesia. These risks vary according to the type of prescribed anesthesia. Infection at the site of the bone marrow collection is very rare and can be treated with antibiotics. Nerve, bone or other tissue damage is also very rare and may require additional medical treatment.

Bone marrow donors can expect to experience fatigue after donating. Some donors have described it as a feeling of soreness and bruising where the needle was inserted —like the soreness that comes from a hard workout or a fall on ice. Donors may also experience discomfort from the breathing tube used during the procedure. These side effects usually last for a few days, though some people may experience them for several weeks. Many bone marrow donors are released from the hospital the same day they undergo the collection procedure. Most need to take several days off work and avoid strenuous activity for at least two to three weeks, which is approximately how long it takes the body to replace the donated bone marrow.

All known risks and side effects are explained during a detailed information session completed by the registered nurse, as well as the physician overseeing the donation. If you are selected as a match to a patient and proceed with the donation, it's important to keep a list of any questions you may have and to ensure you're comfortable with the answers as you meet with the various health care professionals.

Myths about stem cell donation

Being informed is crucial when registering to join Canadian Blood Services Stem Cell Registry. Listed below are some of the most commonly dispelled myths about blood stem cell donation. Read the FAQs. If you still have questions, please call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283) to speak with one of our healthcare professionals.

Myth: Stem cells are taken from the spinal cord.

Fact: No, stem cells are not taken from the donor’s spinal cord. For a bone marrow donation, stem cells are taken from the iliac crest which sits at the back of the pelvic bone.

Myth: All stem cell donations involve surgery.

Fact: Some donations involve surgery and others do not. Registered stem cell donors may be asked to donate stem cells from their peripheral blood or bone marrow. Bone marrow donation is a day surgical procedure done in an operating room. Peripheral blood stem cell donation is a non-surgical procedure done in an outpatient clinic.

Expectant mothers may also consent to donate their umbilical cord blood, rich in lifesaving stem cells, after the safe delivery of their baby.

Fact: For bone marrow donation, the collection of stem cells is taken from the iliac crest and is done using general anesthetic so the donor does not experience pain during the donation procedure. Donors have described having a mild-moderate soreness, bruising and aching at lower back are for a few days to several weeks after their donation.

For peripheral blood stem cell donation, only the stem cells are separated and collected during donation through a non-surgical procedure called apheresis. This is done in an outpatient clinic and takes approximately four-six hours. Donors have described feeling some mild discomfort during the procedure including feeling light-headed, nauseous and/or cold.

For expectant mothers who have consented to donate cord blood, the stem cells are collected after the safe delivery of the baby and placenta/umbilical cord. We do not interfere with the normal process of labour or delivery.

Fact: The recovery period for bone marrow donation varies from donor to donor. Most donors experience fatigue, soreness at the donation site, bruising and lower back pain for a few days to several weeks. Donors may also experience discomfort when walking, standing or sitting. Some donors have reported difficulty climbing stairs for a week or two after their donation. Donors are advised to avoid strenuous activities for 2 – 3 weeks after the donation.

The recovery period for peripheral blood stem cell donation is often much quicker. Most donors say they were able to return to work the day after their donation. Some donors have reported experiencing headaches, bone or muscle pain, nausea, insomnia and fatigue lasting between several days to a week following their donation.

Myth: If I donate stem cells, they cannot be replaced.

Fact: The body replaces donated blood stem cells within six weeks. After donating, most donors are back to their usual routine in a few days.

Myth: I come from a large family, so if I ever need a stem cell transplant, I should have no problem finding a match within my family.

Fact: The requirements for finding a genetic match are so precise that fewer than 25 per cent of those in need find a match within their own family. Patients have better odds of matching with someone who shares their ethnic background. That is why we need culturally diverse individuals age 17-35 to register to join Canadian Blood Services Stem Cell Registry and expectant parents to consider donating their baby’s cord blood to Canadian Blood Services' Cord Blood Bank.

Stay in touch

A lifesaving stem cell transplant can only proceed if we are able to locate a matching donor. Patients are counting on the generosity and commitment of registered stem cell donors to be their lifesaving match. Every new registrant provides hope to those waiting.

It is very important that you let us know when your contact information changes. This can be done by calling us toll free at 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283). You can also create an online donor profile and update your contact information at any time. If you already have a profile, simply log in to update your information. We also appreciate being advised if your health status has changed in a way that may affect your eligibility to donate.

There are many reasons to join Canada’s Lifeline

If every donor in Canada encourages a family member, friend or colleague to join Canada's Lifeline, just imagine the impact it could have on patients across Canada. Get inspired, become a donor and share your reason.

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Canadian Blood Services and do not necessarily reflect those of governments.